Framing & StructuralQuestion 395 of 700
When installing horizontal lap siding, which practice BEST manages moisture behind the cladding?
a.Seal all vertical joints airtight with no flashing
b.Install a water-resistive barrier and lap the siding to shed water over the course below
c.Nail the siding tight with no gap so no water can enter
d.Apply siding directly to studs without sheathing or barrier
Explanation
Lap siding works with a water-resistive barrier and proper lapping so any water is directed outward and downward over the course below. Sealing joints airtight traps moisture, nailing tight ignores the drainage principle, and omitting sheathing and a barrier leaves the wall unprotected.
Law Reference: 2025 CA Residential Code §R703.3Practice all 700 questions free — no signup required.
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